The induction of heme oxygenase 1 decreases contractility in human internal thoracic artery and radial artery grafts

Hemin caused in vitro induction of heme oxygenase 1 in human internal thoracic artery and radial artery grafts. This induction resulted in a reduced contractility to norepinephrine, partially through the cyclic guanosine monophosphate-dependent pathway. This effect was independent from nitric oxide synthesis.